Experienced handicapper's only?

Question

What do you look for in a horse, LIVE at the track or in the paddock that lets you know that horse is ready to run.

Answer 1

What has that got to do with handicapping. The handicapper determines what weight it should carry? In any case viewing the condition of a horse, unless it has some positive negatives about it, is as hazardous a business as trying to tell how much a horse has in hand when it wins. You invariably get it wrong. So stick to what you know best and you can back winners from home.

Answer 2

You want a horse that's standing up, not lying down or sitting (that might indicate he's tired).   He shouldn't be biting his tail or any other part of his body.  There should be no beer cans in his saddle bags.  His saddle should fit him (if he's gained too much weight since his last race he may not be fit), he shouldn't be wearing heals.  He shouldn't have to wear a cast or orthopedic shoes.

Seriously, he should be alert (ears usually forward) and relaxed, however, showing that he has a little energy and that he "looks" like he feels good is O.K. (e.g., a little buck is O.K.), he shouldn't be sweating, his ears should not be pinned back, his coat should be shiny and he should appear muscular and his tail should not be swishing around in circles (could indicate he's unhappy).

Answer 3

It depends on the type of race.  In sprints I look for the horses with the shortest backs and most powerful looking hindquarters, glistening coats, and attitude-wise, they're on their toes and act like they're ready to kick butt.  Avoid long backed horses in sprints.      

For the long races (12 furlongs or better) don't discount the nags (ugly and kind of bony in the croup area, with backs so long they almost look sway backed).  I've seen  the naggiest looking horse in the field win in upsets many times in distance races.  

Distance runners should be mellow in the paddock and post parade, stand patiently while waiting to load.  Avoid the horses with short backs in distance races and horses that are worked up and frothy.    

I'm no good at getting the middle distance races by sight.  I look at past performances for those races.

Answer 4

if the jockey and trainer has low winning percentage,don't bet on it.

Answer 5

when im at the track and watching the horses parade in the mounting yard i look for a relaxed horse...... you dont want your horse spending energy before the race, i also look for a nice coat on a horse and if i can see a LITTLE rib thats good as i know the horse isn't carrying any excess weight.

hope this helps you pick a winner!

Answer 6

look out for tell tale signs of the race . . and also if the opponents have any strong or lively horse . . but is easily tired . . like if they seem lively ?? maybe ??        ..:)

Answer 7

demeaner,relaxed,color blotches are bright,no sweating,boss horse attitude...

Answer 8

i like to check the horse to see if they are already

washy before the race(between rear legs)

Answer 9

This may sound crazy but if it's a claiming race, bet on the horse with the best mane and tail braiding.   Try it....I'm not kidding.